Oakland Nature Preserve - Woodland Trail

Fernlands Preserve Trail is a loop trail where you may see beautiful wildflowers located near Carbondale, Illinois.

Located within Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge and along one of the most scenic lakes within the Shawnee Hills of Southern Illinois Little Grassy Lake Campground is a awesome place to camp for a night or a whole week. There are 14 full hook up campsites. 54 sites have water and electric access. There are also 35 tent sites along one point of campground. All the sites have picnic tables an...

The natural area you are now entering is 110 acres of bluffs and forest designated as Fern Rocks Nature Preserve. The reasons this was designated a preserve were to protect not only the sandstone bluffs, but also two endangered plants. The white flowered mint, and the grove bluegrass. many other wonderful ferns, wildflowers, trees, and shrubs call this area home. Each season brings changes for ...

The massive stone wall was at one time 285 feet long, six feet high, and nine feet thick. The appearance of a “stone fort” or stone wall here at Giant City is one of at least ten in Southern Illinois.  The trail begins at the parking lot and traverses a intermittent cascade waterfall that is amazing after snow melt or spring rains. It is steep and rugged, so be sure to wear quality shoes. Once ...

Beautiful rolling hills and woods surround Lake Murphysboro and provide opportunities for boating, fishing, picnicking, camping and hiking. Paddling is a perfect past time here. Canoe, Kayak, and Paddle Boards are all allowed much of the year. If fishing is on the agenda, a 10 hp maximum outboard motor is all that is allowed. A smaller lake, appropriately called Little Lake, is located just nor...

The Pomona Natural Bridge located in Pomona Illinois is a great hike for most ages.  Starting on a scenic drive from the small town of Pomona, there is ample parking at the trailhead. The hiking trail is easily identified with its gravel path and sign. The trail begins at the top of a hill then descends downward immediately after it begins. No more than a quarter mile into the hike, the path co...